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Amazon Haul: A New Reality Check for DTC Brands

Amazon Haul resets consumer expectations on price. For DTC brands, it’s both a threat and an opportunity: compete on value, not discounts. Use Haul as a funnel, a test lab, and a contrast to highlight your quality and story.

Fractional Leadership: Why It’s So Powerful & Why More Companies Should Embrace It

Fractional leadership delivers executive-level impact without the full-time cost. Learn why startups and scale-ups are turning to part-time leaders to unlock faster decisions, leaner growth, and deeper expertise—at the right moment.

What Does a Fractional CMO Do?

A fractional CMO brings strategic marketing leadership—without the full-time hire. Learn how this focused role drives brand, sales, and growth outcomes, especially in companies that need impact fast but can’t wait for a long CMO search.

Are a Part-Time Executive and a Fractional Executive the Same Thing?

Are fractional and part-time executives the same? Not quite. This article explains the key differences in mindset, structure, and impact—so you know which one your company really needs.

How Soon Can a Fractional Executive Deliver Impact?

Fractional executives don’t need months to show value. With clear scope and access, most deliver measurable impact in the first 2–4 weeks—bringing clarity, momentum, and execution where it matters most.

What Legal, Insurance, and Contractual Issues Should I Consider When Hiring a Fractional Leader?

Hiring a fractional executive? Make sure the contract, liability, and insurance setup are watertight. This post outlines the key legal issues—scope, authority, IP, D&O coverage, and dispute clauses—to keep your leadership engagement clean and effective.

Can Fractional Executives Prepare Companies for Fundraising, M&A, or Sale?

Yes—fractional executives are often the smartest way to get your business ready for funding, M&A, or sale. From forecasts to investor decks, they bring speed, structure, and seniority—without long-term overhead.

How Do I Budget for Fractional Leadership?

Budgeting for a fractional executive isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about scaling smart. Learn how retainers, success fees, and role-specific pricing work, and why the right setup delivers leverage without long-term overhead.

Do Fractional Executives Offer References and Case Studies?

Yes—experienced fractional executives offer case studies and references that focus on outcomes, not just roles. This post shows you what to ask, how to evaluate their past work, and why proof of value matters more than titles.

Are Fractional Executives Truly Motivated—Or Is It Just a Side Gig?

The best fractional executives aren’t doing this on the side—they’re fully committed. This post explains why motivation runs deeper in fractional work, how to spot the real pros, and what keeps them focused.

How Do Fractional Executives Define and Measure Success?

Success isn’t just about KPIs—it’s about setting the right ones. This post explores how fractional executives define success collaboratively, avoid unrealistic early targets, and build outcomes that actually last.

How do employees react to a fractional leader?

Most employees welcome fractional leaders—when they lead with clarity and support. This post explores how seasoned executives earn trust, enable teams, and avoid the mistakes that make part-time leadership feel disconnected.

What If It Doesn’t Work Out with Your Fractional Executive?

If your fractional executive isn’t delivering or the chemistry is off, don’t panic. This post walks through how to assess the situation honestly, when to pivot, and why clarity and culture matter more than commitment.

How Long Does It Take to Hire a Fractional Executive?

Hiring a fractional executive can take just days, not months. This post explains how to move fast, start small, and use your network to find senior leadership support that adds value from week one—without a long-term commitment.

Can a Fractional Executive Become a Full-Time Executive?

Fractional executives can become full-time leaders—when the mission, timing, and vision align. This post explores why some execs stay fractional, when a shift makes sense, and how modern leadership teams can evolve with business needs.

What Tools and Technologies Do Fractional Executives Use?

The right tools help fractional executives stay focused, capture insights, and share them clearly. Here’s a real-world look at the systems and apps that keep things moving—without getting lost in every client’s tool stack.

How Do Fractional Executives Handle Setbacks or Challenges?

Setbacks happen. Great fractional executives handle them with focus, speed, and resilience—zeroing in on what matters most, staying calm under pressure, and adapting quickly when priorities shift.

What’s the Difference Between Fractional vs Interim Executives?

Fractional or interim? One scales your business part-time. The other keeps it steady full-time. This post breaks down the key differences so you know which kind of executive your company actually needs.

Will They Be Committed If They Work With Multiple Clients?

Worried that a fractional executive might not be committed if they work with multiple clients? Here’s why focused time, selective partnerships, and outcome-driven leadership matter more than headcount on their calendar.

How Do Fractional Executives Impact Company Culture and Teams?

Fractional executives don’t just fill gaps—they reset team rhythm, raise the bar, and bring clarity. This post explains how new energy and leadership can strengthen company culture and help teams move forward with purpose.

What Questions Should I Ask When Interviewing a Fractional Executive?

Interviewing a fractional executive? Don’t just check for skills—look for mindset, leadership style, and cultural fit. This guide shares key questions to ask, and why the right exec should reflect your vision for the future.

How Do I Choose the Right Fractional Executive for My Industry?

Choosing the right fractional executive means finding someone with the right function, industry fluency, and leadership style. This guide shows how to evaluate fit—and why Remco Livain is a strong match for D2C, retail, and luxury brands.

What’s the Typical Engagement Duration and Time Commitment?

Most fractional executive roles last 3–12 months with a flexible commitment of 1–4 days per week. This post outlines how long you should expect to work together, what that time looks like in practice, and how to tailor it to your needs.

What Deliverables Can I Expect from a Fractional Executive?

What do fractional executives actually deliver? From strategy docs to team systems, this post outlines the real outputs you can expect—plus how leadership presence and accountability are part of the package.

How Much Does a Fractional Executive Cost?

How much does a fractional executive really cost? From day rates to monthly retainers and hybrid models, this post breaks down typical pricing—and shows when the value far outweighs the spend.

What Types of Fractional Roles Exist (CFO, CMO, CIO…)?

From CFO to CMO to interim CEO—fractional executives can lead every major function in your business. This post outlines the key roles, when to hire each, and what impact to expect from part-time, high-level leadership.

How Do I Know It’s Better Than Hiring a Full-Time Exec?

Not sure if you need a full-time exec or just expert leadership to get moving? This post helps you decide when hiring a fractional executive is the smarter, faster, and leaner choice.

When Should I Hire a Fractional Executive?

Not sure when to hire a fractional executive? This guide outlines the key moments where part-time leadership drives real results—whether you’re scaling, stabilizing, or transitioning your team.

What is a fractional executive?

A fractional executive brings senior leadership to your business—part-time, flexible, and impact-driven. Learn what they do, when to hire one, and how they help you scale without the full-time commitment.

The Art of Restraint: Getting Things Done as a Fractional Exec Without Fixing Everything

As a fractional executive, it’s tempting to fix every broken process you see. But short-term roles demand focus. The real art lies in delivering results, documenting what matters, and resisting the urge to overhaul. Sometimes, doing less is what helps the next person do more.

I Just Don’t Get Google (But I’ll Take the W?)

Ten years ago, I wrote a blog post about Dropbox and editing PDFs. I hadn’t thought about it since. And then, this month, I checked my Search Console… and saw it’s suddenly getting impressions again. No clicks (let’s not get ahead of ourselves), but still — why now?

Why I Love Working as a Fractional Executive

Working as a fractional executive is very rewarding. There are new challenges every day, and I can zone in on the things that truly move the needle, without the distractions that come with needing to own "all" process steps.

E-Commerce as a Share of Retail Sales: The Normalization Era (2025 Update)

In 2020, the world turned to online shopping. For a moment, it felt like e-commerce was destined to replace physical retail entirely. But five years later, the data tells a more grounded story. E-commerce continues to grow — but not in the explosive. What’s really happening?

How Much Does a Fractional Executive Cost?

Let’s be real — one of the first questions I always get is, “Okay, but what does someone like you actually cost?”

What Does a Fractional CMO Actually Do?

A Real-World Example from the Health & Beauty Industry

Stop Hiring for Tactics. Start Hiring for Leverage.

Many companies think they’re scaling their growth team. What they’re actually doing is filling seats with tactical executors—without designing for the leverage those roles should create.

Growth Isn’t a Department — It’s a System

If your sales and marketing teams are working hard but the results aren’t compounding, the issue might not be effort. It might be that you’re treating growth like a function, not like a system.

What to Ask Your Head of Sales (That You’re Probably Not Asking)

Sales isn’t just about revenue. It’s about rhythm, visibility, and alignment. And if you're only looking at the top-line number, you're missing the early signs of success—or failure.

Marketing Is Not the Problem. Alignment Is.

Most companies don’t have a marketing problem. They have an alignment problem—and it shows up in finger-pointing, unclear KPIs, and growth plans that sound good but never stick.

Calm in Chaos: How I Lead When Things Get Messy

Leadership isn’t loud. It’s not about panic or pressure. When everything’s on fire, I stay calm—not because I’m detached, but because people need clarity more than they need noise.

Stranded Assets Start with Silence

Every real estate portfolio has stranded asset risk—most just haven’t labeled it yet. This post makes the case for ESG triage: why disclosure isn’t enough, how to identify silent risks early, and what actions to prioritize before the market forces your hand.

I Work with Brilliant People. My Job? Push Them Further.

The best teams aren’t built by being the smartest in the room. They’re built by creating space for brilliant people—and then challenging them to stretch beyond what they think they can do.

Assume They Can: Leading with Trust Before Proof

Too many leaders wait for evidence before trusting someone. I do the opposite. I give trust early—and make it clear that growth comes from belief, not micromanagement.

From Zero to Local Hero: Operational Lessons from New Market Entry

Being seen as a trusted local partner is what makes or breaks your market entry in energy and e-mobility. From building relationships to mastering regional rhythms, here’s what operational excellence really looks like on the ground.

Marketing Infrastructure: It’s More Than Just EV Chargers

In energy and e-mobility, marketing isn’t a layer you add later—it’s part of the infrastructure itself. From trust to storytelling, here’s why good marketing is as critical as your next charging station.

Don’t Tell Me What Went Wrong. Tell Me What We Do Now.

When things break, I don't look for blame—I look for the next move. Here's how I lead teams through pressure with clarity, action, and momentum, without getting stuck in the past.

Rolling Out a Country Is Not a Project — It’s a Movement

Entering a new country isn’t a project; it’s a movement. In sectors like energy and e-mobility, success demands local insight, community engagement, and change management. It’s about embedding, building trust, and creating lasting impact—beyond just ticking boxes.

Marketing Is Not Dead—You’re Just Doing It Wrong

Marketing has quietly become one of the most misunderstood disciplines in modern business. While everyone talks about content and automation, very few actually do it well. Here’s what that means—and why real marketing still matters more than ever.

Rethinking Public Holidays: A Personal (and Slightly Confused) Perspective

Tired of rigid public holidays? What if we flipped the script—closed shops on Wednesdays and kept weekends buzzing? Life doesn’t always follow a calendar, so why should our breaks? Here’s to embracing spontaneity and rethinking when we pause. #DoWhatYouWantWednesdays

Turning ESG Reporting Into Real-World Readiness

ESG reporting is no longer enough. Real estate portfolios need actionable insight—what to fix, when, and why. This post breaks down how to turn ESG data into real-world resilience, building on trends identified by Plan Be Eco and lessons from working with large-scale property owners.

From ESG Compliance to Climate Resilience: A Roadmap for Real Estate Leaders

ESG compliance is no longer enough. Real estate portfolios must shift toward climate resilience with localized, actionable strategies. This post explores how to move from reporting risk to actively managing it—starting with what to fix first, and where it matters most.

Group Chats Are Not Team Communication

Instant messaging tools like WhatsApp make team communication fast and easy — but that doesn’t mean they’re the right tool for every message. In this post, I explore why leadership communication needs more intention, and how group chats can quietly undermine clarity, trust, and team culture.

Turning Policy into Action: Why EU Funding for Decarbonisation Caught My Eye

As the EU triples its support for decarbonisation projects, the spotlight turns to building owners and what it really takes to act. In this post, I reflect on why this policy update matters — and how clarity, not just capital, is becoming the real differentiator.

Here Comes the AI Sponcon: Why Marketers Need to Rethink Influence Now

“AI influencers are here—and they don’t need coffee breaks or contracts. As TikTok rolls out its latest AI-powered ad tools, marketers must rethink how authenticity, scale, and storytelling work together. Here’s what it means for your brand voice.”

Fujifilm X‑Half: A Tiny Marvel in Vertical Photography

Fujifilm’s X-Half is a tiny retro-styled camera with a vertical twist. No RAW, no previews—just pure fun. It’s like handing your inner photo nerd a toy and saying, “Go play!”

Sportsmanship and the Frustration of Watching the Rulebook Bend

This weekend’s F1 race in Canada reminded me why I love sport — and why I sometimes lose faith in it. When the rulebook bends for strategy, fairness takes a hit. A reflection on gamesmanship, inconsistent penalties, and why sportsmanship still matters.

Why One Focused Session Can Be More Valuable Than a Longterm Project

Long-term consulting isn’t always the answer. In this post, I explore why a single focused session can often unlock more clarity and momentum than months of ongoing support — and why staying slightly outside the day-to-day might be the key to real strategic value.

When the Engine Stalls: Finding Clarity in the Quiet Hours together

When sales stall and teams lose focus, most leaders double down on doing more — instead of stepping back. This post explores how the Revenue Engine Reset creates space for clarity, alignment, and growth through focused strategy sprints held outside regular hours.

Smart Grids Start Local—But Their Impact Should Be Portfolio-Wide

The EKZ OrtsNetz pilot in Winkel shows how intelligent grid technology can reduce infrastructure strain—but the bigger opportunity lies with real estate portfolio owners. Smart grids aren’t just utility infrastructure—they’re a strategic asset waiting to be deployed at scale.

Tomatoes, Sunlight, and Systems Thinking: What a Greenhouse in Aargau Can Teach Us About the Energy Transition

Energy transition doesn’t have to mean disruption. Sometimes, it’s as simple—and powerful—as letting tomatoes and technology grow under the same roof.

The Military’s Carbon Blind Spot: Security, Secrecy, and Sustainability

The military’s role in climate action is a blind spot we cannot ignore, according to Ajit Niranjan. While transparency may be limited by security concerns, it’s time to ask how defence spending can also drive green innovation and reduce long-term risks.

Storage is the New Currency of the Energy Transition

Storage is the new currency of the energy market. While solar energy has made us producers, storage will determine who holds the real power in the energy transition. Opinion piece.

A Friday in Lugano: Lessons from the Dental World

Last Friday, I had the pleasure of standing on stage at the SSO Congress in Lugano, in front of a few hundred dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants. It was one of those moments where you feel both a sense of excitement and a deep respect for the audience you’

Curious reads: “Lucid Dreaming: Gateway to the Inner Self”  by Robert Waggoner

A curious dive into the subconscious, with a somewhat murky map. Why I Picked It Up Every once in a while, I’ll have a dream that lingers—a strange sense of déjà vu, or just something wildly surreal that makes me think, “what if I could actually steer this?

Blogging from Your Notes App: My Deep Dive into Quotion

Quotion turns your Apple Notes into a live blog, making publishing as simple as writing a note. In this deep dive, I explore how it works, why it’s worth your time, and what makes it one of the most refreshingly minimal tools I’ve used in years.

Switzerland’s Renewable Energy Innovators: Pioneering a Sustainable Future

By Remco Livain, CEO of GANDT Published: February 25, 2025 Switzerland’s reputation for precision and sustainability shines brightly in its renewable energy sector. As the founder and CEO of GANDT, a company builder focused on providing marketing and sales support to teams in renewable energy and construction, I’ve

Rediscovering Highlights: A Moment with Bucherer at the Timemachine New York City

Every once in a while, we take a step back and reflect on our journey. Today, that moment came unexpectedly today after a casual Google search. It’s funny how we tend to move so quickly from one project to the next that we forget to pause and appreciate the

SSO Congress 2025: Why Social Media is a Real Opportunity for Dental Practices

In May 2025, I will have the opportunity to speak at the SSO Congress in Lugano. From May 22 to 24, experts in dentistry will gather under the theme “Risks in Dental Practices – Recognize, Decide, Act” to discuss key topics in the field. My Presentation: “Using Social Media – Opportunities and

A New Chapter: Doubling Down on Impact for a Better Planet

For nearly a decade, we at GANDT Ventures have supported clients across industries—from luxury retail, beauty and medical to energy—helping them grow, adapt, and thrive in an ever-changing landscape. It’s been a rewarding journey, but as we reflect on the work we do and the impact we

New Mandate Announcement: Exploring Global Opportunities with Fey1926

I’ve taken on a new mandate with Fey, a company with nearly a century of expertise in crafting high-quality beds and sleep solutions. Starting in December 2024, I’ll be working with Fey to explore opportunities for international expansion through direct-to-consumer (DTC) marketing.

New Board Mandate: Joining Macun One AG and Net New Energy AG

As of October 20, 2024, I’ve had the honor of joining the board of Macun One AG and Net New Energy AG. These two innovative companies are at the forefront of exciting developments in construction and energy, and I’m thrilled to play a part in shaping their future.

New Mandate: Younergy SA, October 2024

Today, I’ve started a new mandate with Younergy SA, a Swiss leader in solar energy based in Crissier (Solothurn and Zürich). Part of the Swiss Solar Group (SSG)

Stuck in a Niche: How Social Media Traps Us in Echo Chambers

Social media traps us in echo chambers, showing us only what we already like. It’s hard to escape these niches once we’re in them. How do we discover something new when the algorithm keeps us stuck?

From Family Time to Business Growth, and What's Next

“After a year of personal and professional realignment, I’m ready to tackle new opportunities, bringing fresh energy to help businesses innovate and grow.”

The Power of Forward Thinking: Moving Beyond the Past

Embrace the future by focusing on what's next, not just the past. My experience with a US CEO taught me that forward-thinking drives success. Reflect wisely, but always keep your eyes on the road ahead.

Exploring Threads: Can Meta’s New App Really Build Genuine Connections?

Discover my honest take on Meta's Threads app. Can it really build genuine connections? Join me as I explore its features, engagement rates, and potential for meaningful networking. Follow my journey on Threads!

Why you won't see me in an Apple Store any time soon

Apple has recently released updated iPads with an impressive form factor and performance. However, I won't be rushing to an Apple Store to get one.

Embracing the Underdog Spirit: Lessons from Rafael Nadal in Entrepreneurship

Rafael Nadal's legacy goes beyond his titles. His unwavering dedication, humility, and resilience inspire me as an entrepreneur. Nadal shows that true success is a continuous journey.

Bridging Worlds: Lessons from Asia's Dynamic Startup Culture

In the heart of Bangkok, I learned from startups the value of lean operations, the art of relationship-building before transacting, and the necessity of cultural adaptability. These lessons could guide Western entrepreneurs to balance growth with sustainability and forge deeper market connections.

Why you should think twice about running a Valentine's Day Promotion, at all

Why I believe you should probably not be running a Valentine's Day promotion at all, and think twice about the structure of your campaign calendar this year.

Remco Livain | Profile Summary

Remco Livain, CEO of GANDT Ventures, excels in digital transformation and growth marketing, leveraging data-driven strategies to foster innovation and organizational growth. Find out more

Embracing the Digital Diary: My Journey with the New Apple Journal App

Apple's recent launch of the Journal App has caught the attention of many, including myself. As a long-time journaling enthusiast who's experimented with various forms, I'm intrigued by the potential this app holds for enhancing the way we reflect on our daily lives.

Cultivating a Culture of Productive Disagreement and Commitment

Welcome to my blog post on transforming meeting culture and decision-making within organizations. Inspired by Jeff Bezos' insights and my own experiences, I explore the concept of 'disagree and commit' and its pivotal role in fostering a culture of effective communication and decisive action.

Finding Balance: A Ride of Reflection and Resilience

Welcome back to my blog series where I share my training experiences and the life lessons they reveal. Today, I reflect on a session that was less about pushing limits and more about finding balance and enjoying the journey.

Unlocking Creativity and Productivity: The Power of Writing and Physical Tools

Today, I want to delve into something that's been a game-changer for me: the art of writing and the use of physical tools to boost productivity and creativity.

Embracing the Ups and Downs: A Journey of Determination and Anticipation

Hello everyone, welcome to the first entry of my rolling blog series, where I share insights from my training sessions and how these moments reflect on larger aspects of my life and work.

Embracing the Old-School: How a Voice Recorder Revolutionized My Content Creation

It isn’t the first time that I’m doing this, but I am going to start using my voice recorder once again. I just really need to get away from my phone from time to time and in the past this has been one of my biggest productivity hacks.

SmileDirectClub files for bankruptcy

The aligner industry is a competitive one. Yet, there are a number of players in the market who have done a fantastic job to raise awareness for the product category. One of the largest players in the market, has been struggling, despite an excessive funding of more than a billion USD.

The Future of Marketing in the Age of AI — what happens when all traffic evaporates

The future of marketing? It's all about AI, structured data, short-form videos, and new ad formats. Plus, as Google and Amazon reshape the retail market, D2C marketers should brace for change. Keep learning, exploring, and sharing!

My Thoughts on Note-Taking Apps 📝

From Notion to Apple Notes to Evernote, I've tried 'em all. While they each have strengths, none of them is my ultimate note-taking app. It's not just about the coolest features, it's about what works best for you.

Drawing Wisdom from Chess: What Gary Kasparov Taught Me About Entrepreneurship

As an entrepreneur, I relate to chess grandmaster Gary Kasparov's view on defeat. Each loss feels personal, a reminder of our own errors. But in business, as in chess, we're not the only players. Here's to acknowledging the brilliance of others!

The Power and Potential of Sabbaticals: A CEO's Perspective on Employee Breaks

Exploring paid sabbaticals as a tool to boost creativity and productivity. I am eager to learn from other business owners about their experiences to shape our approach to fostering a balanced workplace.

Harnessing Emotional Intelligence: The Power of Active Listening and Empathy

It's through channels like the "Think Fast, Talk Smart" podcast that I continually refine my approach, becoming a more effective professional, manager, and partner. This episode with Celine Teoh really hit home.

Progress, Not Perfection: The Impact of Missing Goals and How to Drive Long-Term Success

**Excerpt:** Missed goals can lead to a sense of failure, a response known as the 'negative lumping effect'. However, it shouldn't eclipse the real progress made. Goals are markers, but tangible progress is the true victory. Keep striving and appreciating your journey.

The Illusion of Plenty: Why Focus is the Key to Success and Happiness

Embrace focus over diversity in your professional pursuits. As Robert Greene wisely said, it's about mining a rich vein deeper rather than skipping between shallow mines. Success and fulfillment lie in depth, not extensity.

Setting the Pace: Overcoming Mental Barriers and Setting Unobtainable Goals

In endurance training, it's not just the physical challenges but also the mental battles that define our performance. Setting intangible, 'unobtainable' goals can be a powerful motivator, pushing us beyond easily achievable targets and encouraging us to strive further, both in training and in life.

The Game Changer: Hiring a CFO and Focusing on My Strengths

As a serial entrepreneur, Remco Livain reflects on his best decision - hiring a CFO for GANDT Ventures GmbH. It has eased the workload and enabled me to focus on his strengths. I advise fellow entrepreneurs to seek help early. Here‘s why.

Nurturing Relationships: The Underrated Powerhouse of Success in Business

In business, nurturing relationships can significantly influence your success trajectory. Fostering long-term relationships, keeping in touch, and investing time and effort in them can unveil previously unimagined opportunities. Remember — relationships aren't just for now; they're for a lifetime.

The Apple Vision Pro: A Glimpse into the Future or an Encroachment on our Reality?

The Apple Vision Pro brings with it the promise of an immersive new reality but also potential pitfalls. While its technological prowess is undeniable, the hefty price tag, privacy concerns, and potential for creating a digital divide must not be overlooked.

Learning to Nurture Employee Growth: A Personal Wake-Up Call

Nurturing employee growth is crucial, even for high performers. A surprise resignation led to a wake-up call for us at GANDT, prompting a reevaluation of our strategies to better support all team members.